What can I do with a computer science degree?

From the newest phone apps to the next hottest tablet or phone, there’s no avoiding the buzz that surrounds tech culture. As the future moves forward technological advancements are making great strides. However, technology doesn’t make itself. There is no breeding season for computers (not that we know of). All technological advancements are possible because of a huge industry of information technology backing it up. People make technology. People use technology and people improve technology.
If you find yourself analysing the latest and greatest tech releases, dreaming up your own tech creations, or even coming up with solutions to make current products better, then you might want to consider a career in the computer science field. A computer science degree can provide a lot of opportunities. Computer science degree will open numerous doors. It is not the sheer availability and demand of computer science professionals that make this degree worth your while, it is also the quality and range of careers you can build on the back of your computer science degree.
Computer Science Skills
When working in a field that is subject to continuous changes, being well-versed in problem-solving is highly beneficial. There will be times when the line of code does not meet the testing criteria, or you have a long stint of prolonged work in order to meet your next goal. In these situations, your flexibility and skill in working through a pressing problem will come in handy.
Critical thinking is probably one of the top things that comes to mind when evaluating skills for computer science-oriented jobs; many roles in this field require lots of looking at screens, mulling over numbers, and testing code. It’s key for somebody in this field to be capable of understanding all sides of a problem–to analyse and edit things like a machine.
However, a sense of creativity will also help you fully tap into your role. A great computer science is no longer just what kids used to call a “nerd” or “geek”. You have to understand the high demanding nature of the industry has made it compulsory for professionals in this field to be creative. Think of Da Vinici with a computer. Problem solver, analyser, creative person all in one.
Top Careers in Computer Science

1. Software Developer
Software Developers are incharge of creating and developing websites, programs, and other applications that run on computers or other devices.
Skills: Competency in computer programming is highly recommended for these positions. Interpersonal skills to collaborate with others on projects and being detail oriented to be able to juggle multiple aspects are also highly valued.
Salary: Around $105,000, (Annual salary in the U.S.)
2. Web Developer
Web Developers are programmers that are concentrated on coding, designing, and building out the layout of a website.
Skills: Knowledge of HTML/CSS, Javascript, and other programming languages are essential for this role. It’s also important to have a basic grasp of graphic design and a collaborative mindset while working with other designers on projects.
Salary: Around $69,000.(Annual Salary in the U.S.)
3. UX Designer
UX Designers lead the creation of significant and relevant experiences for users of a particular product or platform. They’re part of the reason why you love your favourite apps and their interfaces.
Skills: Technical knowledge of programming and computer systems can greatly help your success in this position–this expertise makes it easier to convert your design vision to useful interfaces. Additionally, it helps if you’re well-versed in user experiences, which allows you to see the product as the future users would and adjust accordingly.
Salary: Around $74,000.(Annual Salary in the U.S.)
4. Mobile App Developer
Mobile App Developers are similar to Web Developers, except their area of expertise is creating, coding, and testing for mobile applications.
Skills: Besides the basics of strong analytical skills and coding knowledge, it’s good to know both programmatic languages—Java (for Androids) and Objective-C (for iPhones)—for the sake of range.
Salary: Around $69,000.(Annual Salary in the U.S.)
5. IT Project Manager
IT Project Managers are in charge of planning, budgeting, and basically running an organisation’s IT goals and initiatives.
Skills: Competent leadership skills are important for this position. As the IT Project Manager, you will be responsible for not only heading up a team, but steering, hiring, and making decisions for the interest of all.
Salary: Around $142,000. (Annual Salary in the U.S.)
6. Information Security Analyst
Information Security Analysts are in charge of implementing systems of safety and protecting a company’s computer networks.
Skills: Being meticulous and detail-oriented in your work is mandatory for success in this role, as a whole organisation’s security is on the line. Being able to predict outcomes and adjust security accordingly is also key.
Salary: Around $98,000.(Annual Salary in the U.S.)
7. Systems Architect
Systems Architects analyse a company holistically and figure out how to bring the best possible IT strategy for their department’s goals. They define and design the architecture of said system to create the highest quality experience possible.
Skills: To succeed as a Systems Architect, you need the ability to critically analyse the objectives of a business and identify the scale of resources it will require on all sides. Being able to troubleshoot, assess, and translate customer needs is also good to have.
Salary: Around $109,000. (Annual Salary in the U.S.)
8. AI Engineer
AI (Artificial Intelligence) Engineers create, test, and develop computer systems with a goal of mimicking human intelligence in said systems.
Skills: Programming is at the heart of this role,, alongside a strong understanding of software development, linear algebra, probability, and statistics.
Salary: Around $144,000. (Annual Salary in the U.S.)
9. Computer Hardware Engineer
Computer Hardware Engineers are responsible for designing, researching, developing, and building computer systems and components like chips, memory devices, and circuit boards.
Skills: You need solid technical and analytical skills, and a strong spirit of collaboration when working with software developers on developing projects.
Salary: Around $114,000. (Annual Salary in the U.S.)
10. Video Game Developer
These developers are coding the games you play in your free time. They code on various systems and conceptualise with other developers to create playable games.
Skills: Storytelling skills, along with the ability to conceptualise both plot and design, are key to this role. It’s valuable to have a vision and ideas for executing it well, not simply know the programmatic language.
Salary: Around $65,000. (Annual Salary in the U.S.)